Is There a Link Between Acne and Diet?

When it comes to the cause of acne, experts agree that there are a lot of factors in play. Many have been mentioned as possible causes of acne including diet, and according to a new research there is a link between acne and diet, particularly high glycemic diet. Foods that are highly glycemic may be responsible for some of the acne breakouts that plague many.

So if you want to lessen the chances of experiencing bouts of annoying breakouts, you should watch what you eat. Which foods should you avoid? We came up with a list below.

Avoiding These Foods May Help Lessen Acne Breakouts

Refined Carbohydrates

White Flour

Bullas

Dumplings

Cakes

Burger buns

Hotdog rolls

Pita breads and patties

White rice

Pastries such as cakes, gizzadas, donuts and plantain tarts

Potato pudding and bread pudding

Pizza

Sweets and Candies

Chips

Breakfast cereals

Sugary fruit juices

The items listed above are high glycemic foods. They can trigger a spike in the blood sugar and consequently trigger a spike in the insulin secreted by the body. This can trigger a hormone that spikes up the insulin growth factor IGF-1 which causes increased cell growth. Increased cell growth may start clogging the pores and spike up the skin’s oil production. Experts agree that overproduction of sebum (the skin’s natural oils) lead to acne breakouts.

IFGBP3 is another hormone that is increased by high glycemic foods. This hormone acts as a regulator of the IGF-1 and keeps it under control. The IFGBP3 may also bring down the effectiveness of specific chemicals referred to as natural retinoids. Natural retinoids are found in the skin. A decrease in the number of retinoids may cause more breakouts.

Insulin can also play a huge role in increasing the levels of androgens in the blood. A spike in the levels of androgen may lead to more sebum production which can cause acne.

Fast Food Meals and Fatty Foods

Patties

Burgers

Hotdogs

The food items listed above are high in unhealthy fats. There is much evidence pointing to the plausibility of the fat we consumed being converted into sebum. As mentioned earlier, experts have been pointing the finger on overproduction of sebum as one of the major factors in acne breakouts. It is also ideal to minimize the use of grease, butter, and oils when you’re cooking your meals.

Dairy Products

Milk

Ice Cream

Milkshakes

According to the new research, dairy products show weak but possible association with acne. Milk, in particular may have a huge influence on the severity of acne.